Larry Ivan Michael

Larry Ivan Michael passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the age of 81, at Our Hospice of South Central Indiana in Columbus, Indiana. He was born on October 2, 1944, in Lincoln, Nebraska to the late Jewel and Virginia (Huxford) Michael. On October 22, 1966, he married his high school sweetheart, Kay Zimmerman. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Kay; brother, Gary of Veedersburg, Indiana; nephew, Jeffrey Richardson of North Salem, Indiana; nieces, Paula Richardson (Bob) Ritter of Loveland, Ohio, Audrey Michael (RD) Hayman of Veedersburg, and Virginia Michael (Johnny) Williams of Stilesville, Indiana; and two great-nephews; three great-nieces; and two great-great-nephews.

Larry was a graduate of the class of 1962 at North Salem High School. He was active in school sports, especially basketball, and was the Valedictorian of the class. After high school graduation, Larry attended Rose Polytechnic Institute of Technology (Rose Hulman) where he majored in Civil Engineering. He was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity and graduated in 1966. In 1967, he enrolled at Butler University and attained his MBA in 1970.

Upon graduation from Rose in 1966, Larry was hired by Cummins Engine as an Applications Engineer and enjoyed 26 years of employment. He was fortunate to enjoy jobs in many areas of the corporation. After leaving Cummins in 1992, Larry was employed at Osram Sylvania in Seymour, Indiana as a Quality Engineer. In 2000 Larry became the Quality Manager at Hella Lighting in York, SC. While there, he acquired the status of a Qualified Quality Auditor. In 2008, Larry formed his own Consulting Business.

While living in Charlotte, NC, Larry worked at the NASCAR Hall of Fame and had the honor of meeting many NASCAR drivers. He also acted as an Ambassador at the Pro Golf Tournament at Quail Hollow Country Club for many years.

In 2014, after their retirement, Larry and Kay returned to Columbus, Indiana, where they currently reside.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home, 220 N. Maple Street, Pittsboro, Indiana. Friends may gather for a time of visitation from 11:00 a.m. to the time of services at 1:00 p.m. Graveside services will be held at the New Ross Cemetery in New Ross, Indiana.

Memorial gifts can be sent to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana, 2626 17th Street, Columbus, Indiana 47201.

Arrangements are entrusted to Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home of Hendricks County.  All are encouraged to keep Larry's family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of loss.